Section of Hurstbridge train line to close for six weeks

ROADS will be thrown into chaos when a chunk of the Hurstbridge train line is closed for six weeks. However, a hot-air balloon ride will certainly slash the 55-minute delays on the way to work.

Public Transport Victoria have estimated 55-minute delays on the Hurstbdirge line between March 16 and April 29. Picture: Ellen Smith

ROADS will be thrown into chaos when a chunk of the Hurstbridge train line is closed for six weeks for track upgrades and the level crossing removal at Rosanna station.

Commuters are already scrambling for alternative ways to work during the disruption, with bikes, shuttle buses and even hot-air balloons among options being discussed.

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During the works, buses will replace trains from 8.15pm on Friday, March 16, to the last train on Sunday, April 29, adding 55 minutes to a trip into the city, according to Public Transport Victoria.

Banyule mayor Mark Di Pasquale said there would be a “significant” impact on local roads.

Meanwhile Nillumbik mayor Peter Clarke said the Bolton St and Warrandyte Bridge projects would add to the congestion.

Hoards of travellers are expected to flood the roads and neighbouring train lines.

RACV mobility manager Dave Jones said the upgrade was a “positive step in the right direction” but urged the State Government to provide passengers with “viable alternatives”, including buses to the South Morang line.

Banyule Council mayor Mark Di Pasquale and Nillumbik Shire mayor Peter Clarke warned there would be a “significant” impact on suburban roads.

Cr Clarke said temporary road closures for the Bolton St and Warrandyte Bridge projects would add to the congestion.

The completion of the Bolton St project was pushed back two months until the end of March by VicRoads while the Warrandyte Bridge should be finished in September.

Alternative city-bound routes are being discussed to cope with the looming congestion.

Kangaroo Grounds’ Damian Crock said a hot-air balloon ride could slash the commute during the construction blitz. Picture: Ellen Smith

Cyclists can absorb a slice of the stunning scenery along the Yarra River for part of the 27.5km ride, between Eltham’s Andrew Park and Flinders Street station.

Meanwhile, Kangaroo Grounds’ Damian Crock said a hot-air balloon ride could slash the commute, taking just 30 to 40 minutes for the majestic glide into the world’s most liveable city, if weather permits.

Mr Crock, who owns Picture This Ballooning, said they used the Yarra River as train tracks into the city and flew between 6am and 8am.

“It should be the ideal alternative to any delayed trains you might experience,” Mr Crock said.

The flight might set you back a few hundred dollars each morning, but at least you’d have a cracking view.

@Britt_Shanahan